"The third-year defensive end is reportedly a healthy scratch for the first time in his career on Sunday, an indication of just how far he has fallen since the Patriots drafted him in the second round in 2023. He was projected to thrive under Mike Vrabel, after a tough year in the Jerod Mayo era, but we have yet to see that come to fruition."
"In fact, he's almost played worse this year, which isn't exactly what anyone was hoping for when Vrabel took over the team. And now, his performance has been so poor that he is purposely being benched on game day. That would seem to point to the team's plans for him ahead of the trade deadline, but they will run into a big problem if they hope to move him in the next week."
"While trading White at one point may have been likely, and that could still be something Vrabel and Co. are hoping to do this season, his lackluster performance doesn't make him a desirable candidate for any team looking to add depth to their defensive line. Because of that, it will inevitably make it difficult for the Patriots to move him, even for a late-round pick, as he would be somewhat of a mystery player for a team to add to their lineup."
The Patriots have largely avoided major injuries so most game-day inactives have been expected or healthy scratches. Keion White is a healthy scratch for the first time in his career, reflecting a significant decline since being selected in the second round in 2023. White was expected to improve under Mike Vrabel after struggles under Jerod Mayo, but his play has regressed this season and he is being benched on game days. The benching suggests reduced role and possible trade considerations, yet his lackluster performance will likely limit trade interest to late-round compensation or few inquiries, making a move difficult before the deadline.
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